The search for something chic, something free

PANAMA. Midweek is the time for discoveries, and strolling around town I found a few interesting picks.

Canal House at Casco Viejo

A chic neighborhood has to have a chic hotel. The Canal House hotel is a charming little hotel with lots of attitude.

It is the first hotel in Central America to receive the Green Globe certification, which means it complies with international sustainability standards. It was also featured as a New York Time “Editor's Pick”.

The decor has a tropical taste ,perfect for its locations. It certainly has a tourist appeal, as it is close to restaurants, museums and a short distance to the city.

Make a note for your next party, the hotel has a main floor with charming ambience that can host dinner or cocktail receptions.

Say Cheese

Thinking of a light dinner at home, I spotted a new cheese at the Rey supermarket. Cremoso has now a feta like cheese made with sheep's milk. Salty, crumbly and affordable. This Bulgarian import is perfect for those nights when just a Greek salad and a glass of wine would do.

For you people who like to entertain, cube the cheese, and add kalamata olives and sprinkle a little truffle scented olive oil for a tasty appetizer.

Wine pack

Found as chic and practical way to pack a wine bottle at the Palacio Hindu store (Los Pueblos) Works either as a gift wrapping or an elegant way to arrive at your next dinner party

A real bargain at only $2.

Free concerts

Most of the time going out means big priced tickets. Thankfully there are exceptions to this rule coming up. The National Theater in Casco Viejo, has two excellent choices in music and you can enjoy them gratis.

On Friday, July 31, the National Symphonic Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Jorge Ledezma Bradley will feature pieces from Rossini and Schubert, 8:00 p.m.

The Brazilian Embassy and INAC (Panama’s Cultural Institute) invites all to the concert “Trio Da Cancao

Brasileira” on August 4, 8:00 p.m.

Dress and see you there.